When you are ready to choose a broker, there are several options available. A few years ago, you only had full-service brokers and discount brokers. But now the lines between these two have been blurred to the great benefit of investors.
You should think of your broker as the middleman between you and the person you are going to buy your stock from or sell your stock to. When you place an order to either buy or sell a stock, your broker will then find a party that is willing to take the other side of your transaction. The broker will then charge a fee or commission for the service. There are many brokers and financial advisors with varying levels of service. This article can help you decide which type you will need.